Jemkay Smith

Minnesota Man Jemkay Smith

Little Randy Turner is only two years old when he's sent to an orphanage after his father goes to prison. It's rural Minnesota in the 1920s, and times are tough all around. But Randy Turner was born fighting to hold on, and even as a small boy, setbacks only serve to strengthen his determination.

Minnesota Man is a true story of the coming-of-age of a remarkable young man during an extraordinary time in American history. Follow Randy Turner as he grows up moving from one foster family to the next, survives two major surgeries, becomes a boxing champion, and joins the US Navy at the outbreak of World War II.

A unique and powerful interweaving of one man's personal history with the history of a nation, Minnesota Man celebrates survival in the face of life's harshest realities and the strength of character and will necessary to triumph over adversity. Based on information gathered from Turner's personal accounts, as well as institutional and government records, this tale will have you rooting for Turner as he overcomes obstacles and trials to become the hero he was meant to be.